Campervan fridge: how to choose the right fridge for your way of travelling

Summary: campervan fridge at a glance

• Campervan fridges work differently from fridges at home
• You can choose between compressor and absorption fridges
• Connections differ: 12V, 230V and gas
• Being level is important for proper operation
• The type of fridge affects your power consumption and travel freedom

What is a campervan fridge?

A campervan fridge is specially designed to work on the move. Unlike a fridge at home, it must:

• withstand movement
• operate on different power sources
• manage efficiently with limited power

Depending on your travel style, campervan type and power supply, you will choose a different system.

Types of campervan fridges

Compressor fridge in the campervan

A compressor fridge works similarly to a household fridge, but runs on 12V, 24V or 230V.

Advantages

• Cools quickly and consistently
• Works well at high outside temperatures
• Less sensitive to being unlevel

Disadvantages

• Draws power continuously
• Requires sufficient battery capacity

If you use solar panels on your campervan, a compressor fridge is often an excellent combination. Read more about power generation via solar panels on your campervan

Absorption fridge (gas, 12V and 230V)

Absorption fridges can run on gas, 12V and 230V and are also known as 3-way fridges.

Advantages

• Very quiet
• Ideal for extended wild camping on gas

Disadvantages

• Less cooling power at high temperatures
• Must be kept virtually level

These fridges are popular with campervanners who like to stay in one place for several days.

Connecting your campervan fridge: 12V, 230V and gas

Campervan fridge on 12V

12V is typically used while driving. The fridge is then powered via the alternator. When stationary, 12V is not recommended without solar panels or a large battery.

Campervan fridge on 230V

230V is used on campsites or campervan pitches with a mains connection. This is the most stable way to keep things cool.

Campervan fridge on gas

Gas is ideal for off-grid travel. Ensure good ventilation and safety provisions.

What size fridge fits your campervan?

The capacity of a campervan fridge is measured in litres.

Guidelines

• Up to 80 l: camper van or short trips
• 80–120 l: 2 people, longer trips
• 120 l or more: families or winter trips

A larger size means more comfort, but also more energy consumption.

Built-in or freestanding fridge?

Most campervans have a built-in fridge. Ventilation is crucial here to dissipate heat.

In camper vans you sometimes see compact or portable fridges, which are flexible but often have less capacity.

Energy consumption: what does this mean for your power plan?

The type of fridge has a significant impact on your power supply:

• Compressor fridge → higher power demand
• Absorption fridge → lower power consumption, but gas required

Other systems such as a water pump in the campervan use little power, but still count towards the total consumption. Read more about this at campervan water pump

How to get your campervan fridge cooling better

• Make sure your campervan is level
• Pre-cool warm products outside first
• Keep ventilation grilles clear
• Park in the shade where possible

Levelling ramps help you get level quickly and safely. See our guide on levelling ramps for campervans

Maintenance and cleaning

• Clean the fridge regularly
• Leave the door slightly ajar when the van is in storage
• Check seals and ventilation

This prevents unpleasant odours and mould.

Common problems and solutions

The fridge is not cooling properly

• Is the campervan level?
• Is the ventilation clear?
• Are you using the correct power source?

Works on 230V but not on gas

Check gas pressure, ventilation and the igniter.

Frequently asked questions about campervan fridges

What is better: compressor or absorption?
That depends on your travel style. A compressor fridge is ideal with solar panels; absorption is great for extended wild camping.

Can the fridge run while driving?
Yes, usually on 12V via the alternator.

How long can a fridge run on the battery?
That depends on battery capacity, fridge type and outside temperature.